ANALYSIS BY SCANNER OF TRACKS PRODUCED BY RADON ALPHA PARTICLES IN CR-39 DETECTORS

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Nuclear Physics
• Material Science

Background:

• CR39 detectors are widely used for passive radon measurement due to their stability and ease of use.
• Commercial radon detection systems are often costly and time-consuming.
• There is a need for rapid, efficient, and economical methods for evaluating radon exposure using CR39 detectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a cost-effective and efficient method for analyzing indoor radon measurements obtained with CR39 detectors.
• To establish a calibration curve for CR39 detectors across a broad range of radon exposure levels.
• To investigate the statistical relationship between nuclear track characteristics and radon exposure.

Main Methods:

• Utilized CR39 detectors for indoor radon exposure.
• Employed a photo scanner and the free ImageJ software for image analysis and data acquisition.
• Developed and analyzed multiple groups of exposed and chemically developed CR39 detectors.
• Established a calibration curve spanning 200–12,000 kBq·h·m⁻³ exposure values.
• Conducted a statistical study on nuclear track morphology and dimensions.

Main Results:

• A calibration curve was successfully generated, enabling application across diverse measurement environments.
• The dependence of track size on radon exposure was confirmed, revealing a trace saturation effect.
• The developed method provides a rapid, efficient, and economical alternative for radon assessment.

Conclusions:

• The developed ImageJ-based method offers a practical and affordable solution for analyzing CR39 radon detectors.
• This approach enhances the accessibility of accurate indoor radon monitoring.
• The findings contribute to a better understanding of radon detection physics and material response.